Vlok: Steyn gives us the edge

2011-05-20 07:44

J.J. Harmse

Pretoria - The anticipated test-match atmosphere in Durban will definitely give the Bulls a sense of comfort because, according to kicking coach Vlok Cilliers, their goalkicker is one who has proved all over the world that he has big match temperament.

Cilliers said on Thursday that Bulls flyhalf Morné Steyn's kicking boot would be a factor in any game that he plays. He was speaking at the launch of a new kicking series for schools in which he and Steyn are partnering to develop more goalkickers.

"I believe that you pick the goalkicker first and then the rest of your team. How many big trophies have not been secured by an accurate kicker? The Bulls are fortunate to go to Durban with someone like Morné, who has spent hours to be able to maintain his high standards," said Cilliers.

Steyn (26) will be playing his seventh game against the Sharks in Super Rugby. He has only been on the losing side twice and notched up 63 points in those games.

In his previous appearance at this level in Durban, Steyn had the Sharks under pressure early on with two drop goals and helped secure victory for his side.

"I don't go onto the field with a preconceived plan to kick drop goals. It's a matter of summing up the situation and playing accordingly. Quite often, as is the case with the Sharks, the opponents' defence is of such a nature that there is no way through," said Steyn.

"Then you have to keep the scoreboard ticking and the momentum going with a drop goal."

Altogether three of Steyn's 20 Super Rugby drop goals have come against the Sharks.

Steyn would like to increase that tally if the situation demands it.

He will probably also score points off the kicking tee, but it's not something he necessarily wishes on other kickers.

"Durban and Cape Town are difficult places to kick. The wind swirls in an unusual manner in Kings Park and the weather is often unpredictable," said Steyn.

"The humidity is also a concern and the ball does not travel as far as it does on the Highveld. It's also a derby and the guys want to smash one another. Our challenge will be to focus on what we want to achieve in the game and not on our opponent."

Comments

sakkie - 2011-05-20 08:04

We all know he's good, however, how good is the man without the ball ! I think the Sharks will slow down the ball up front, and I don’t think the Bulls have the players to muscle the Sharks. Good thing the World is ending tomorrow...cant face my mates at work Monday after loosing to the Sardines....!!

gooinat - 2011-05-20 08:05

Only if Steyn is onsong with he's boot,otherwise it could be a long day for the Bulls

ikilladabull - 2011-05-20 08:14

Irrispective of who you support, you would want this guy to do well. Bottom line.......he's our flyhalf for the world cup.

sakkie - 2011-05-20 09:47

Agree boet, agree.......!

Khanyi - 2011-05-20 08:31

Woza Bullz, the sardines are waiting...Sharks forever

sakkie - 2011-05-20 08:46

@Oukoos...I agree with you there, the sharks talent runs out at no10 in their backline ! ja ja ja ok...old WO and JP aint the best in the game either.....in fact, I am confident that JP is by far the worst centre in SA at the moment ! @ Big Al....the world gonna end one way or another, if WO scores another try his ego will destroy us all...It's gonna be an epic game !!

rugby_guru - 2011-05-20 08:48

Steyn can turn on the heat, but it could also be a HECTIC cold and windy game and that ball can turn all over the show... We will see.

MBSS (Meeste bulls supporters Suck) - 2011-05-20 09:39

The only thing the “Flou Nulle” will beat this weekend is there wife’s...
Why doesn’t the “Flou Nulle” go and play at Orlando Stadium again? At least they can then visit their Love Childs?

René Müller - 2011-05-20 10:29

Really MBSS, flou nulle? The only thing getting "flou" is your effort in name calling! Maybe one of the other franchises that has never won a Super trophy? I love my so called flou nulle! They have made the Bulls supporters and other SA rugby supporters very proud! May the better team win tomorrow!

Why the harping on about drop goals? Steyn has played six games against the Sharks. Three drop goals. Two in one game. That means only one drop goal in the other five games! A total average of one drop goal every two games. Really Vlok, that sort of hit rate is not exactly going to get the Sharks loosies tearing off the side of the ruck. If you want to play mind games in the press before a match, rather talk about something that makes sense. Bakkies Botha throws more headbuts and punches than Steyn will ever kick drop goals.